An 80-year-old driver was killed, and two passengers were injured following a multi-vehicle collision on Highway 101, Santa Barbara County, on Wednesday afternoon, May 22, 2024.
According to the California Highway Patrol, the collision happened around 12:15 p.m. on Highway 101 near Union Valley Parkway.
Authorities stated that an 80-year-old Santa Maria man in a 2007 Honda Civic was driving southbound when he began to approach stopped traffic. For unknown reasons, the man failed to slow down, causing his vehicle to collide with the back of a Dodge Durango. The Dodge Durango was then crashed into a third vehicle after the initial collision.
The driver of the Honda sustained injuries and was transported to the Maria Medical Regional Center, where he died. Two passengers from the Dodge Durango were treated at the scene and taken to the hospital for immediate treatment.
Police said that the identity of the deceased is being withheld pending notification of his family.
No further information was released. Investigations are ongoing.
Don’t Know What To Do After An Accident?
Your safety and rights depend on what you do next after an accident. Remember the following steps if you find yourself in one:
- Check yourself for any injuries.
- Stay on the scene, call 9-1-1, and wait for emergency responders.
- Move your vehicle to the road shoulder if safe; turn on hazard lights.
- Fully cooperate with law enforcement and stay until cleared to leave.
- Document the scene and injuries with photos and videos.
- Seek immediate medical attention.
- Contact your insurance company and find a personal injury lawyer for legal advice.
What A Lawyer Can Do For You
Many victims put off calling a lawyer even if they sustain injuries after an accident. However, lawyers can help you in many ways. They can provide you with police reports, CCTV footage, and witness statements to strengthen your case. Your attorney will also negotiate with insurance companies to get you fair compensation. The best part is that they will do all of these things for you at no upfront cost. So if you’re injured in an accident, hire a personal injury attorney to recover medical bills, car repair costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.